Nestled between Nice and Cannes in the South of France lies a quiet little town called Antibes. This charming town boasts a series of delightful beaches, an old town filled with lovely little French houses, and fantastic food. While the town itself is fairly quaint, it’s location makes it an easy day-trip from Nice or Cannes. Personally, I recommend spending at least a weekend in Antibes to enjoy the town to its fullest.
Jon and I have been visiting Antibes every summer since we moved to Amsterdam four years ago. We are fortunate enough to have family down here, which makes the trip very easy and comfortable. But even if Antibes is new to you, the people are wildly friendly and the town is super relaxed. You’ll end up feeling right at home.
Keep reading for all the best things to do and see during your weekend in Antibes. If you’re looking for more travel within France, check out my guide to Paris, Champagne, or Bordeaux.
Xx, Kelsey
WHEN TO VISIT
Antibes is honestly beautiful year-round, but if you’re looking for the best beachy weather for your weekend in Antibes, I recommend September. Antibes is the most crowded during the high summer months of June – August. If you time things right and head there after everyone returns to school in early September, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous, warm sunny days without all the people. You can even come as late as the first weekend of October and still be rewarded with good beach weather.
That being said, I’ve also visited Antibes in January to escape the Amsterdam grey skies and late October. You certainly will not get beach weather, but it’s still a great time for exploring nearby towns and visiting museums. Luckily the sun shines there all year long.
WHERE TO STAY
The best way to spend a weekend in Antibes is to rent an Airbnb in the old town. Nothing beats wandering the narrow streets and walking down to the beach. Rentals here are pretty inexpensive. We always stay with family, but you can easily find homes to rent for a great price. Many come with the coveted sea view, too. Look for homes in the old town if you want tons of character.
WHAT TO DO
Relax at the beach – Plage de la Gravette is right by the marina in Antibes and hard to miss. Grab a towel and bottle of French rosé to hang out in the sunshine. Or pop over to one of my favorite beach clubs, Royal Beach or Monsieur Pablo Plage for a more upscale experience complete with loungers and drinks.
Shop le Marché Porvencal – The beautiful market is open all days except Sunday. Swing by in the morning to pick up fresh fruits, veggies, cheese and spices. Perfect for cooking dinner or a picnic on the beach.
Visit Neighboring Biot – Biot is a medieval town known for their glassworks. Take the bus 30 minutes inland to grab lunch and watch the glassblowers at work.
Take the train to San Remo or Monaco – The train is surprisingly easy between Italy and France. We took it to San Remo, Italy one morning to visit the market and then stopped in Monaco for lunch on the way back.
Explore Musée Picasso – A beautiful little museum featuring Picasso’s work that he created during his time in Antibes. Don’t miss the stunning terrace of the building that overlooks the ocean.
Book a boat – One of my favorite things to do while traveling is book a boat for the day. We use this site when we visit, since it lets you choose with or without a captain. Highly recommend for seeing the most of the Cote d’Azur from the water.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Le Chrono – This amazing little restaurant had great steak and pasta at reasonable prices. Plus the tiny feel that you want from a French restaurant.
Amarena – There are so many gelato spots in Antibes. We have tried them all over the past several years and have to say Amarena is far above the rest. In particular, get the amarena flavor with the most amazing cherries you’ll ever taste.
Royal Beach – I’m obsessed with this spot for fresh fish on the water. It’s also great during the day for the beach club.
Salé et Sucré – Some of the biggest bowls of pasta I’ve ever had! And they put a giant burrata in the center. I’m salivating just thinking about it again!
Nacional Trattoria – The French Riviera has a lot of Italian influences. This spot has the best penne arrabiata I’ve ever had. Plus great pizza and wine.
Aux Délices Antibois Fils – The best bakery in town. Go here every morning to pick up croissants and baguettes. It’s always busy with locals. A good sign!
Café des Chineurs – A lovely little spot for rosé and salmon right near the market. Great for people watching and enjoying the sun.
Anywhere with outdoor seating – The best thing to do during a weekend in Antibes is grab a seat outside in the afternoon. Order glasses of rosé while you soak up the sun.
La Cascade – Decent pizza, but worth it for the people watching. I was also a huge fan of their moules frites.
Nomads – A little coffee place that makes a fantastic latte and has all different types of milk.
Copenhagen Coffee Lab – This place gives the local bakery a run for their money with fantastic croissants and pasteries
Pack a picnic – Grab a baguette, some cheese, fruits and veggies and head down to the beach for an afternoon lunch.
